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A federal judge criticized conditions at an ICE processing center in Broadview, calling them “disgusting” and planning a temporary restraining order to enforce improvements. Former detainees testified about overcrowding, lack of food, and unsanitary conditions, prompting the judge to seek immediate relief for those still held there.
Rabbi Tamar Manasseh launched the Tiny Kitchen Project in Englewood to feed over 100 children and families amid uncertainty surrounding federal food assistance benefits. Volunteers will prepare meals for distribution at MASK Peace Academy, aiming to combat hunger and its link to violence. The initiative has garnered community support and donations, including funding from local pastor Bishop Johnny Banks Sr.
Chicago residents can compost their Halloween pumpkins at various Pumpkin Smash events this Saturday, promoting eco-friendly waste disposal. Participants are required to remove all decorations before bringing their pumpkins to designated locations, where they can either smash them or leave them for composting. This initiative aims to reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
Michael Yoo and Jimmy Jung launched 82 Kimbap, a fast-casual eatery in Sterling Food Hall, serving Korean rice rolls. The duo, inspired by their craving for Korean comfort food, spent months perfecting their recipes before opening their stall. 82 Kimbap aims to provide a taste of home for the Asian American community in Chicago.
Wicker Park’s “Meet Me On Milwaukee” car-free events will return in 2026 after a successful pilot program this year. The events, which closed Milwaukee Avenue to traffic for several Sundays, attracted significantly increased foot traffic, benefiting local businesses. Organizers reported attendance tripled during the August event compared to last year.
Tenants groups in Chicago urge local leaders to implement an eviction moratorium amid ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations targeting residents. The All-Chicago Tenants Alliance argues that fear of eviction exacerbates financial struggles for vulnerable workers, particularly in the Latino community. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed willingness to consider the request, while no response has come from Governor JB Pritzker.
Chicago restaurants provide free and discounted meals to families affected by the pause in SNAP funding, impacting around 2 million residents. Offers include free meals at various locations and discounted coupons for those in need. Local food pantries also ramp up efforts to support the community during this challenging time.
Federal agents apprehended Omar Huerta Cisneros, a man with schizophrenia, in Chicago Lawn while he walked to a grocery store. Bystander Edgar Manzo recorded the incident, providing crucial evidence for Cisneros' family, who struggled to locate him after his detention. Without the video, they would have remained unaware of his whereabouts for weeks.
The City Council's zoning committee approved a cannabis dispensary near Wrigley Field and two apartment developments in Andersonville and East Garfield Park on Monday. The dispensary, set to open at 3650 N. Clark St., will be the closest to Wrigley Field, while the apartment projects aim to increase affordable housing in their respective neighborhoods.
The Black Harvest Film Festival returns to Chicago from November 10 to 16, celebrating its 31st year at the Gene Siskel Film Center. The festival will feature a mix of digital shorts, documentaries, and repertory films, highlighting Black narratives and local experiences. Curator jada-amina emphasizes a focus on showcasing joy and brilliance in the Black community.